Congratulations! You've decided on a destination for your next dive vacation, and you're well on your way to exploring new places - underwater, and topside, too. Now, you're about to meet new people and enjoy interesting experiences of all kinds. Despite potential language barriers and cultural divides, you can dive into the experience headfirst, particularly if you welcome the opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and cultures. Here are some tips for making the most of a trip abroad - no matter where you go.
Step One: Do Your Homework!
Thank goodness for the internet, travel books, and great TV documentaries! Before you go anywhere, spend some time learning about local culture. This will greatly increase the likelihood that you'll be welcomed as a guest, and it will help enhance your worldview. Some things to focus on:
- History
- Religion
- Politics
- Geography
- Environment
- Demographics
- Cuisine
- Appropriate Behavior
In addition, do what you can to learn a few key words and phrases, and invest in a pocket language guide. Learn how to greet people, and how to say "please" and "thank you." Learn how to ask whether you may take a photograph, ask for directions, or ask someone his or her name. Just as important, know what not to say, and know which hand gestures not to make.
Step Two: Dress the Part
You might feel comfortable in a bathing suit, or shorts and a tank top, but even in some tropical countries, displaying the body in public is seen as offensive. Know what local people wear, and cover yourself accordingly. You don't have to wear the same clothing items they do, but you should take a cue from locals and avoid insulting anyone. Often, you can wear bathing suits and other items at your resort, but you'll be best off dressing up to go out for topside excursions.
Step Three: Utilize the Golden Rule
Always treat others as you would like to be treated, and remember, you're visiting someone else's home. View this as a privilege and an honor - but don't forget to relax. If you're open and easygoing, people will automatically feel more comfortable in your presence. Always remember to introduce yourself, and be sure to show interest without patronizing people. Remember, they're accepting you for who you are, and you should accept them in turn, instead of viewing them as archaic, or as curiosities to be pointed at.
Remember that you are an unofficial representative of your own country, and do your best to always use respectful behavior. Think of how you would feel if the tables were turned, and remember that you are a guest.
In addition, be sure to follow local laws regarding the use of alcohol and tobacco. While some nations allow certain drugs (particularly cannabis) to be used, ensure you follow your best judgment and remember that taking chances can have unintended consequences. The last thing you want to do on this vacation is find yourself visiting the local jail, paying a stiff fine, and enduring an embarrassing trip back to your hometown.
By showing respect, and by immersing yourself in local cultures, you'll discover that you get a whole lot more out of your trip than you would if you were to simply stay at your resort, or stick to diving without ever venturing out to meet the people who inhabit the places you admire so much. Who knows - you may even make new friendships that will last a lifetime.